Spain 1, 2, 4, 10, and 20 Reales (Isabel) (Fakes are possible) 1837 to 1852

Spain issued many different silver reales coins during the 1800s. Those addressed here bear Isabel II's likeness and a crowed arms with chain reverse. The denomination shows on either side of the coat of arms, with annotations such as 1R (1 real) and 4Rs (4 reales).

Most of these coins that you see are in very worn condition. Alfonso has one in great shape, and that means high value. Coin collectors are always willing to pay extra for coins that make their collections look good!

Here are some typical catalog values for these coins:

1 REAL (15 mm diameter)
worn: $12 US dollars approximate catalog value
average circulated (like our picture): $45
well preserved: $80
1837CL, 1840CL, 1843CL, 1840RD, 1845RD: $200 well preserved
1838DG, 1841CL, 1842CL: $400 well preserved

2 REALES (18 mm diameter)
worn: $80 US dollars approximate catalog value
average circulated (like our picture): $120
well preserved: $200
1851RD is more common: $80 well preserved

4 REALES (23 mm diameter)
worn: $50 US dollars approximate catalog value
average circulated (like our picture): $180
well preserved: $300
1848CL and 1849CL are more common: $100 well preserved

10 REALES (28 mm diameter)
worn: $120 US dollars approximate catalog value
average circulated (like our picture): $500
well preserved: $1000
1840DG: $3000 well preserved

20 REALES (36 mm diameter)
worn: $300 US dollars approximate catalog value
average circulated (like our picture): $500
well preserved: $1000
1842RD: $2500 well preserved
1839CL, 1840CL, 1847CL, 1850CL: $6000 well preserved

Be sure to check our Important Terminology page discussions about catalog values. They are inflated values.

As with all valuable coins, you must be on the lookout for counterfeits. Comparing patterns (as above) is a good way to check, but it is not 100% reliable. Comparing weights is better than comparing patterns. Buying coins in top-quality numismatic slabs (PCGS, NGC, ANACS, ICG) is also very good. But the best way to protect yourself from buying fake coins is to deal only with reputable coin dealers with whom you have built strong personal relationships over time.
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